Tottenham Hotspur have opened talks with Liverpool over a potential move for Andy Robertson, a deal that could prove as symbolic as it is strategic for Thomas Frank’s evolving side.
The Scotland captain, 31, is entering the final months of his contract at Anfield and is weighing up his future after seeing his role reduced this season. With the World Cup on the horizon, Robertson is keen to secure regular football — something Liverpool can no longer guarantee.
BBC Sport understands Spurs have made an initial approach, though negotiations remain at an early stage. No agreement has been reached, but the very fact Tottenham are exploring the deal reveals much about where the club believe they are falling short.
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Robertson has started just four Premier League matches this campaign, having lost his first-choice status to summer signing Milos Kerkez under new head coach Arne Slot. While Slot has publicly praised Robertson’s professionalism and influence behind the scenes, Liverpool are preparing for life beyond one of the defining full-backs of the Jurgen Klopp era.
Since arriving from Hull City for just £8m in 2017, Robertson has become one of the most successful players in Liverpool’s modern history. He has made 363 appearances, won nine major trophies — including two Premier League titles and the Champions League — and redefined the role of the attacking left-back in English football.
If Robertson departs, Liverpool would be left with Kerkez as their only senior option in the position, though there is a strong possibility Kostas Tsimikas could be recalled from his loan spell at Roma to provide cover.
For Tottenham, however, the move raises questions.
On paper, left-back is not an obvious priority. Destiny Udogie remains first choice when fit, Djed Spence offers flexibility on either flank, and Brazilian left-back Souza was signed for £13m just this week. Even Ben Davies, before suffering a season-ending ankle injury, was available as experienced depth.
Yet context matters.
Tottenham are currently stretched thin, with eight players unavailable and a midfield that has struggled for balance and control throughout the campaign. While Frank has reasonable defensive depth, his squad lacks senior voices — players who have navigated title races, hostile European nights and the pressures of elite competition.
João Palhinha is the only available Tottenham player aged 30 or above. Four of the club’s seven oldest players are currently sidelined. It is a young squad, talented but prone to inconsistency, and often vulnerable when games swing emotionally.
This is where Robertson’s value lies.
As Scotland captain and a serial winner, he offers leadership that cannot be coached overnight. He is vocal, demanding and tactically disciplined — traits Spurs have too often lacked in decisive moments. Even if he does not start every match, his presence in the dressing room and on the training ground could have a stabilising effect.
There is also a practical angle. Davies’ injury has removed a reliable deputy, and Udogie is only just returning from fitness issues. A short-term deal for Robertson could provide immediate security while mentoring younger players in Frank’s system.
Financially, the move makes sense. With Robertson approaching free agency, Tottenham may be able to negotiate a reduced fee, limiting risk while adding proven quality.
Whether Liverpool are willing to strengthen a domestic rival remains to be seen. But from Tottenham’s perspective, this is less about filling a positional gap and more about addressing a cultural one.
If Spurs are serious about closing the gap on the Premier League’s elite, experience may be the missing piece — and Andy Robertson represents exactly that.
